What You'll Find at Remley's Point

Remley's Point Public Boat Landing is a concrete ramp facility in Charleston County, located near the town of Remley's Point on the Stono River. The landing provides direct water access to the Stono, a tidal estuary that connects to Charleston Harbor and the Atlantic. This is a working public facility — no frills, straightforward ramp and parking — used by anglers targeting saltwater species, crabbers, and recreational boaters heading into the river system.

The ramp itself is a single-lane concrete structure suitable for trailered boats up to roughly 20 feet, though larger vessels do use it. Parking is available in a gravel lot adjacent to the ramp. There is no fuel dock, no tackle shop, no restroom facilities, and no overnight camping. What you get is water access and a place to leave your vehicle while you're on the water.

The Stono River at Remley's Point is brackish to saltwater depending on tide and season, with depths that shift with tidal movement. Mud and oyster shell bottom is common. The river widens considerably as you move downstream toward Charleston Harbor, and narrows upstream toward freshwater influence.

Key Takeaways

  • Remley's Point is a free public ramp with a single concrete lane, gravel parking, and no amenities — bring everything you need before you arrive.
  • The Stono River here holds redfish, spotted seatrout, flounder, and blue crabs, with fishing conditions that change significantly with tide.
  • Parking fills quickly on weekends and holidays, especially during spring and fall when fishing pressure is highest.
  • South Carolina saltwater fishing requires a saltwater recreational license unless you are fishing from a licensed charter or party boat, or are a resident under 16 or over 65.
  • Launch and retrieval during slack tide or rising water is easier than during falling tide, when the ramp can become steep and slippery.

Species and Seasonal Patterns

The Stono River system around Remley's Point holds redfish year-round, with peak activity in fall and spring when water temperatures drop into the 60s and 70s. Redfish move into shallow flats and marsh edges during these periods and respond to live shrimp, mullet, and crab. Summer redfish are present but deeper and less predictable in the heat.

Spotted seatrout (called "specks" locally) are most reliable from October through April. They school in deeper holes and channel edges, particularly where the river narrows. Live shrimp under a popping cork is a standard approach. Winter months can produce larger fish, but water clarity drops and fishing becomes weather-dependent.

Flounder move through the Stono during spring and fall migrations. They hold on the bottom in deeper cuts and along channel edges. Live mullet or live shrimp drifted or cast near structure produces strikes. Summer flounder are present but scattered; fall flounder (September through November) are more concentrated and easier to locate.

Blue crabs are abundant and can be taken by hand line, crab net, or trap from the ramp area and throughout the river. Spring and fall are peak seasons. Crabs move shallow during high tide and deeper during low tide. A simple hand line with chicken neck or squid works reliably.

Tides, Water Conditions, and Launch Timing

The Stono River is tidal throughout the Remley's Point area. Tide range is typically 4 to 6 feet, with the greatest swings during new and full moons. High tide provides the most water depth on the ramp and makes launching and retrieval easiest. Low tide can expose mud and make the ramp steep and slippery; launching a heavy boat becomes difficult and risky.

Slack tide — the period of 30 to 45 minutes around high or low tide when water movement is minimal — is ideal for launching. During falling tide, current runs seaward and can push a boat sideways on the ramp. During rising tide, current runs inland and is less problematic. Plan your launch around tide tables available from NOAA or through smartphone apps.

Water clarity varies with season and recent rainfall. Spring and fall typically offer better visibility (2 to 4 feet). Summer can bring algae blooms and reduced visibility. Heavy rain pushes freshwater into the system and can lower salinity, which affects which species are active and where they hold.

Current speed increases during the first and last hours of tide change and slows near slack. This affects how you position your boat and how bait drifts. Faster current requires heavier weights and different casting angles.

Facilities, Parking, and What to Bring

Remley's Point has a gravel parking lot with space for roughly 15 to 20 vehicles and trailers. On weekends and holidays during spring and fall, the lot fills by mid-morning. There is no reserved parking and no attendant. Arrive early if you want a spot close to the ramp.

There are no restrooms, no water fountain, no shade structure, and no trash service. Bring drinking water, sunscreen, and a cooler for your catch. Pack out everything you pack in. The ramp area can be muddy after rain, so wear appropriate footwear.

Cell service is generally available but not may provide. There is no fuel dock nearby; the nearest fuel and supplies are in Charleston or at private marinas several miles away. Plan your trip with a full tank and all tackle and bait before you arrive.

Regulations and Licensing

South Carolina requires a saltwater recreational fishing license for anyone 16 and older who is not fishing from a licensed charter or party boat. Licenses are available through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website, by phone, or at authorized retailers. A three-day license is available if you do not want an annual permit. Residents 65 and older and children under 16 do not need a license.

Crabs taken by hand line or net are not regulated by individual catch limits, but commercial traps are restricted. Check current regulations for redfish, seatrout, and flounder before you fish — size and bag limits change and vary by season. The South Carolina DNR website has current rules.

Boating safety equipment is required: a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) for each person aboard, a fire extinguisher, and a sound-producing device. Boats under 16 feet do not require registration in South Carolina if they are not motorized, but motorized boats of any size must be registered with the state.

Getting There and Nearby Options

Remley's Point is located off Remley's Point Road in Charleston County, roughly 20 miles southwest of downtown Charleston. From Charleston, take US 17 South toward Beaufort, then turn onto Remley's Point Road and follow it to the landing. GPS coordinates are approximately 32.7°N, 80.3°W. The drive from downtown Charleston is 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic.

Other public ramps in the area include Shem Creek in Beaufort (about 20 miles south), which offers more facilities and access to similar species, and various landings along the Ashley River closer to Charleston. Remley's Point is chosen by anglers who want direct Stono River access and do not need amenities.

The Stono River system is also accessible by kayak and canoe from several put-in points upstream. If you do not have a boat, this is an option for exploring the river, though it requires different gear and skills.

Best Times to Fish and What to Expect

Fall (September through November) is peak season at Remley's Point. Water temperatures drop, redfish and seatrout move into predictable patterns, and flounder migrate through. Expect crowded parking, especially on weekends. Early morning launches (before 7 a.m.) give you the best chance at a parking spot and calmer water.

Spring (March through May) is the second-best period. Redfish and seatrout are active, water is warming, and crab season is strong. Weather is more variable than fall, with occasional cold snaps and rough water. Afternoon fishing can be productive once water warms.

Summer (June through August) is slower for most species. Redfish are present but deeper and less predictable. Seatrout are scattered. Crabbing remains reliable. Early morning and late afternoon are better than midday. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and can make the ramp area unsafe.

Winter (December through February) can be productive for seatrout and redfish, but weather is unpredictable and water can be rough. Cold snaps push fish deeper. Fewer anglers use the ramp, so parking is easier. Dress warmly and check weather forecasts before launching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish at Remley's Point?

No. You can fish from the ramp itself or from the bank nearby. Crabbing by hand line is popular from the ramp. However, most anglers use boats to reach deeper water and better fishing grounds in the river.

Can I launch a kayak or canoe here?

Yes. The ramp is suitable for hand-launching kayaks and canoes. There is no separate kayak launch, so you will be using the same ramp as motorized boats. Arrive early to avoid congestion.

What is the best tide for launching?

High tide is easiest for launching and retrieval. Slack tide (the period around high or low tide when water movement is minimal) is second-best. Avoid launching during falling tide, when the ramp becomes steep and slippery.

Are there fish here in winter?

Yes. Seatrout and redfish are present and can be productive, especially on warmer days. Water is colder and fish are deeper, so fishing is less predictable than in fall and spring. Weather is the main challenge.

Can I leave my boat here overnight?

No. Remley's Point is a day-use facility only. There is no overnight mooring, no overnight parking, and no camping. You must remove your boat and vehicle before dark.